Gods will for your life

1. GOD’S
WILL
FOR
YOUR
LIFE
ROMMEL FERNANDES

2. To
Sis.Jacintha Fernandes,
Bro.Cyprian D’souza
and
Pas.Evan Dias
for being
godly
examples

3. CONTENTS
Introduction
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7

4. Introduction
The purpose of this book is not to promise you material prosperity or physical healing –
you’ve probably read and heard too much about these doctrines already. This book
highlights what God exactly expects from you during your life here on earth. If you are
interested in pleasing Him in the years ahead read on. Aiding you to do His will, will be
God Himself.

5. Chapter 1
Don’t brood over woes (Phil.4:8)
Some thoughts can spoil your mood and drag you down. When you think of the
setbacks that you have faced or about the people who have let you down you turn
gloomy and slide into a state of depression. Don’t brood over your woes or traumatic
incidents. Get such useless thoughts out of your head. That’s the way to be happy and
cheerful.
Purify your heart (Jas.4:8)
People today listen to messages with no intention of changing their hearts. That is why
some churches are as dead as a doornail. The hearts of those who sing and pray,
“Change my heart O God” and then do nothing themselves remain as black as coal.
God won’t do for us what He wants us to do ourselves. He wants us to purify our hearts.
How can that be done? In the same way water is purified. All impurities have to be
thrown away. This in the only way to have clean lives and pure hearts. As long as
people continue to ‘let go and let God’ chances of a revival will remain slim for God
doesn’t treat us like puppets on a string. Prospects of seeing new souls in the kingdom
too will be dim, as unbelievers will be put off by hearts that are unclean.
Live in harmony (Ps.133:1; Acts 15:39)
When two human beings come together for a common purpose, differences are bound
to arise. In the church, this happens more than often, not just because of the strong
personalities there but also because of the devil and his accomplices (demons). They
don’t want the church to be a close-knit family, with brothers and sisters all working
together. So they make sure that people take offence of someone else’s idea or have a
misunderstanding. Therefore you see brothers in arms one week, go up in arms against
each other, the next.
Believers may have disagreements but they should see to it that these disagreements
don’t get nasty. Don’t be like those believers who don’t talk to one another for years
after a bad incident. You should not have anything against anybody. Since you want
harmony, if a person has a misunderstanding with you, instead of waiting for him to
extend the olive branch, do it yourself. Resolve conflicts nicely. It will lead to a more
relaxing and a less stressful atmosphere in church.
Rejoice always (1Thes.5:16; Hab.3:17-18)
What is really important in the Christian life is a positive attitude. By adopting an
optimistic outlook (the-current-depressing-scenario-will-pass view) and by remembering
God’s promise that the worst will work out for your best you can be joyful when your
going is bad. This way of seeing life gives victory over depression and makes the
problems you face far easier for you to deal with. When Paul was imprisoned he could
have questioned God’s love. Instead he was joyful and gave time to praying and writing.
His writings minister to us even today. You may talk to unbelievers about the joy in your
life but they are going to check you out.

6. Trust Him (Ps.125:1)
Nobody could have imagined that Joseph would one day become the prime minister of
Egypt. He did not have connections! But He knew a God who had not forgotten Him and
that made all the difference in the world. God knows which buttons to push to get the
best for us. Fast-forward a thousand years to the time of Mordecai and you find the
same thing. You see God working behind the scenes for Mordecai’s good. He is a
master of timing things beautifully! (Esth.6:1-11). Trust Him even if He doesn’t fix the
problem right away for in His time He will act far above your expectations (Compare
Ezra 4:21-24 with 6:6-12).
If there are enemies around you they are there for a reason. In Judg.2:22 God says,
“I’m going to let those enemies stay. I’ll use them to test Israel.” If we don’t have
enemies how will we get tested? Do you understand now, why God allows rowdies to be
around? To test and see if we will obey Him by forgiving them or disobey Him by
punching them on their jaws. God deliberately sends people whom He loves through
tests to make them stronger.
Die to self (John 12:24)
One of the reasons some Christians are not fruitful is because they are not dying to self.
Paul was flogged and jailed in Philippi but instead of licking his wounds he started
praising God. There was an earthquake and all the prisoners escaped. Seeing this the
jailor was about to commit suicide. Paul could have thought, “Serves him right after
what he did to us!” But he didn’t entertain such a thought. Instead He went and stopped
him. What was the result? The jailor and his family got saved. When we die fruit is
produced.
Same is the case with the fruit of the Spirit. It does not get produced magically in a
person’s life through other people’s prayers. Prayer is not a magic wand. The Holy Spirit
can produce it only when we die to our rights – respond properly to provocation, injury,
abuse, sickness etc. Can you strive to make every difficulty an occasion to exhibit God’s
fruit?
Don’t be jealous (Jas.3:16)
Jealousy is one of the roads to unhappiness, and the most commonly traveled. It is
responsible for the internal strife that we see in churches. Just take a look around. You
will see gigantic wedges that divide believers apart. Because of jealousy even children
of God live as foes. When you need someone to talk to there is no one. Where there is
jealousy there is backbiting and belittling which lead to problems beyond resolving.
There’s a lot of stress that comes with jealousy and selfish ambition.
Since we are children of the same Father, we should not feel insecure of each other
because of our different gifts. After all, all these gifts are important. And all of us are
important. All of us have our roles to play. We are not in competition with anyone.
We should have genuine love for one another. For where there is love there is no
burning desire to be number one, there is no desire to eclipse another person, there is
no bickering or fighting. You are as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are
about your own for you know that it’s all about rowing the same boat.

7. Love wife (Eph.5:25; 1Pet.3:7)
All husbands should make an effort to be kind to their wives. Being kind means meeting
her sexual needs; being romantic and not a fuddy duddy (S.of S.2:6). It means not
breaking her heart by calling her names when she forgets to iron the shirt that you need
for an important meeting. It means not hitting or pushing her when she irritates you. It
means giving her a hand in washing dirty vessels after dinner or mopping the floor
sometimes (some lazy fellows stay away from this by calling it unmanly) even if you
have to miss a football match on TV. Small gestures like these that show your concern
for her can make her happy.
If she is in the family way you have to care for her even more. You should always be
eager to help her. Her welfare should mean more to you than everything else. If she
loses her kidneys you should be willing to donate one of yours (if compatible) and not
wish that she died soon so you can marry another woman. That’s what real love is. It
makes large sacrifices. Jesus loved us like that.
Stay away from useless talk (2Tim.2:16-18)
Discussing difficult biblical doctrines, which the Bible doesn’t explain clearly is useless
talk. It only leads people farther away from God as doubts crop up. For example the
doctrine of the Trinity - How three different persons could have had no beginning is
something our finite minds cannot understand. If it was just one person we would have
found it easy to believe. That is where faith comes in. We believe because the Bible
says so. That is why we also believe that Jesus is equal to the Father even though He
will be subject to the Father for all eternity to come (1Cor.15:28). “But why does He
have to if He is God? It just doesn’t add up,” you may say. That’s again going back to
useless talk.
Meditate on the Bible (Josh.1:8)
The verses of the Bible are meant for contemplation and implementation. This is the
way to become increasingly godly. When you have stuff from the Bible to ruminate over
there is no time for impure thinking! The Holy Spirit uses the Bible to change our way of
thinking. If you surrender yourself to Him by taking the Bible seriously and following its
instructions day after day, He will mould you into a new person (Eph.4:23-24). You will
no longer be a crook. You will get polished to a radiant shine and become like God.
In the past false teachers have been able to slip through the door because people didn’t
know their Bibles. Don’t swallow the teachings of preachers hook, line and sinker. Let’s
be careful for what we hear always isn’t the truth. We have to read the Bible for
ourselves. It is a compass that can prevent us from straying.
God’s words should mean something special to you. Despite your fast-paced life you
should not miss even one sitting. Those who meditate on the Bible get smarter. They
don’t remain naïve anymore. Vow to not let your Bible get dusty again.
Encourage children for mission work (Jude 23)
If you heard a piercing scream coming from a house on fire, wouldn’t you ring the fire
brigade and then rush to help in whatever way possible? Probably you would. But there
are parents who wouldn’t do that and would stop the firefighters who arrived too! So

8. many young men and women are not in missions today because their parents wanted to
see them in nice respectable jobs with a future. In today’s value system, serving in a
multinational corporation has greater value than serving the Lord as a missionary! You
can see this again and again when believers choose marriage partners for their
children.
A person may not be able to make money as God’s servant but it is the most important
job on earth. Souls are eternal and hell is eternal. Hell will not cease to exist nor will
those who go there. They will suffer forever and ever in that pit of sulphur. That is why
God send His only Son to die a painful death on the cross. The gospel is the only hope
of mankind. It is sensible therefore to invest in the souls of men. God has kept us in this
world after saving us to be on a rescue mission. He is anxious that people should know
the gospel.
Don’t contemplate suicide (Deut. 5:17)
If you are thinking about killing yourself, change your mind. Whatever terrible thing (a
bad childhood, disappointment in life, poor treatment from the people you were involved
with, failure, loneliness, an unhappy marriage or prolonged illness) you may have
gone/are going through, you cannot let it make you take your life and suffer forever in
hell. You are precious to God. Don’t separate yourself from Him for eternity. Maybe not
one person understands you. He does. Maybe you don’t have anybody that loves you.
He loves you. Maybe there’s nobody around to help ward off boredom. He longs for
your fellowship (Besides, we Christians have plenty to do. The gospel needs to reach
the nook and corner of our country).
You need to spend time all alone in a room with God. Just God, you and a copy of the
Bible. There you will learn the real meaning of life. You will realize that you are here for
a purpose and that everything that takes place in your life is also for a purpose - to
make you Christ like and to make you useful to others. It is by going through difficult
experiences that you can help people out there who are suffocated by life and crushed
under pressures and failures.
Continue in ministry (Gal.6:9; 2John 8)
Maybe you are thinking that you’re working without any real recognition and it’s unfair.
You want to give up. You must not get discouraged friend. A day will come when all
unsung heroes will be felicitated for their past endeavors. On that day you’ll realize that
you had been noticed by someone all along and that all your sweat and hard work
wasn’t in vain! Your lot in the hereafter will be totally different from that of believers who
were living selfishly on earth. Can you wait till that day and continue to work faithfully
(and happily) in your zone? It’s worth the wait from God’s standpoint because you will
get rewards that will be with you forever and they’ll be things you’ll be proud of.
Correct others (2Tim.4:2; Ezek.33:7-9)
Two men can be very close friends like David and Jonathan, two men can be very close
co-workers like Paul and Timothy but two men should never be involved sexually
(Lev.18:22). A man should marry a woman and not another man (Gen.2:24). Nor should
a woman marry a woman. Sex should be within marriage not before or outside it. These

9. are God’s laws. When people turn their backs on them they are doing the worst thing
that one can possibly do and God gets outraged.
If you see people in a homosexual relationship, it is wrong for you to look away or to be
tolerant. All believers have a responsibility to keep the moral fabric of society intact. You
cannot say, “Let’s live and let live” or “It’s none of my business.” You are responsible for
their souls and have to warn them. You have to love them and then say, “My friend,
what you’re doing is wrong. Change for the better.” Some of them will consider you rude
for poking your nose into their affairs. Others will be receptive to God’s word. Always be
faithful to the Great Commission.
Use common sense (Acts 13:2; 1Ki.3:16-28)
Pray to God for wisdom (1Ki.3:9). He will then open your eyes both to see and
understand things in a different way. You will be able to wrestle with everyday dilemmas
efficiently.
Like in those days the Holy Spirit won’t tell you directly today that you have to take up a
particular job. He has given you a brain to make decisions. If there are three jobs you
have to weigh the pros and cons and choose the best one. You don’t have to pray for
hours nor do you have to run to elder brothers (who usually act like wise sages just
down from a mountain) for the final decision. Just use your common sense and
everything will be all right.
Live in harmony (1Pet.3:11)
This is an age of distrust. Unity is a rare thing. Why can’t people get along with each
other? Self-centredness – that’s what’s at the root of it! People have the appetite for
power. There is jealousy. There are disagreements and you can see sparks flying
everywhere. It’s only love that can hold people together. For love doesn’t try to
manipulate, doesn’t try to push it’s way to the front, doesn’t outsmart others, treats
people as equals and doesn’t bear grudges.
Don’t poke fun at others (Neh.4:1-3)
In 2Ki.2:23-24 we read that some boys began making fun of prophet Elisha by calling
him baldy. Right away two bears ran out of the woods and ripped to pieces forty-two of
the boys. This incident tells us that cracking jokes at the expense of others is a serious
matter in God’s sight especially when the other person is not amused. When you joke
about a person’s characteristic that looks funny to you but that he can’t do anything
about, you are being insensitive. You may do it for a giggle but it hurts the other person
mentally even if he laughs on the outside.
As we are in the grace period God may not send a wild animal to tear you to pieces but
He can make you as bald as a coot. Try to keep your bad sense of humour in check.

10. Chapter 2
Don’t meddle in other people’s business (2Thes.3:11)
If we concern ourselves with what is happening in other people’s houses it means we
are not looking at our own house. There are Christians who try to unmask other
people’s personal lives. If a couple doesn’t have children, they want to know which one
of them has the problem. The time that ought to be spent profitably is being wasted on
frivolous exercises. One should be concerned with ones responsibility in society and not
keep tabs on other people’s affairs.
Be patient (Prov.16:32; 1Pet.2:20)
Your company is staffed by monkeys who don’t know how to behave and who you wish
would go live in caves somewhere. But they won’t. You know why? Because God has
kept them around for a purpose. Do you remember when you were small your parents
forced you to go to school, and you hated that? But it taught you to read and write and
find a job when you grew up. Now you are grateful for their foresight. Similarly God has
a propose for keeping those ‘eggs’ out there who you really like to keep a distance from.
He wants you to become more patient. Everything you experience in your life makes
you who you are. Every time you are patient you grow. By not telling your colleague
who’s got a big mouth to shut up you grow to become a self-controlled person. By giving
a patient hearing to a person with a sob story you grow in love. The work situation may
not get any better in the near future but personally you can grow.
Love all of God’s children (Phile. 4-7)
Some believers show disrespect to believers from the lower strata and yet claim to be
Christian. How can people who make others feel cheap and uncomfortable in church
call themselves Christian? People from the lower strata are not asking for your money.
All that they wish for is a little respect. Can they be granted that much? Obliterate the
word low caste from your dictionary. They too are God’s children as much as anyone
else.
Live properly (2Cor.6:3)
There are certain people who do damage to Christ’s cause because of the way they
conduct themselves in their trade and commerce. Then they have the cheek to make
propaganda for the arrival of Jesus. It is not what we say as much as how we behave
that will catch the attention of unbelievers.
Help those around (Jas.2:14-16)
We wonder if one can love unknown people far away without loving those nearby?
Some people pray for the family members of fire and terrorism victims in some foreign
land without lifting a finger to help members of poor families in their own motherland.
Will those prayers lessen the agony of the bereaved members? Only with the passage
of time will that happen. Help people around by parting with your money.

11. Talk to someone about your struggles (Gal.6:2)
We all go through our private hells. If you are going through a crisis talk to someone.
Bringing such matters out in the open is far better than pretending everything’s all right.
What are our fellow believers there for if not to help us? Also don’t forget that God is a
good friend who is with us every step of the way.
Don’t follow leaders blindly (Acts 17:11; 1John 4:1)
Some believers never question the reasoning of their pastors even when they know it is
wrong. One pastor wants his church believers to bind demons in all the major temples
of India. He has made copies of the map of India with photos of temples on them that he
wants his church believers to keep their hands on and pray. He believes that by AD
2006 all these strongholds will collapse and India will be won for Jesus. Instead of
fighting imaginary battles sitting in prayer rooms what we need to do is channelize our
energy properly by actually going out to the market and sharing the gospel like apostle
Paul
Get rid of all the filth in your life (Jas.1:21)
In some public places on Sunday evenings you will find people trying to convert you to
Christianity every 20 minutes. It’s a good thing. There are a number of churches that
have sprung up and grown in our country because of such activities. We admire people
like these for their gospel sharing skills but what we hate is their skill in humiliating
fellow believers. They can be very malicious and ugly with their words in churches.
Preaching and bitching don’t go together.
Beware of false prophets (Mat.7:15-20)
At special meetings, guest speakers go clairvoyant and in the future can see you with a
better job, healed of sickness etc. If you question one such after the meeting he can’t
give you a straight answer and can be a bundle of contradictions. Believers who are
ever seeking prosperity take their words as words from heaven. They can’t see through
these preachers’ deception. Such type of preachers are not in the ministry because they
love the Lord but only because it can lead to rupees or $$$. Beware of these men who
spin money out of emotions.
Don’t envy others (Jas.3:14)
Maybe it bothers you that someone is taller than you, is better looking or has better
credentials than your own. You can envy a person but if you knew the trouble and
hardships he is going through and the tragic life he is living you will probably give him
your sympathy. From outside you don’t know the kind of insecurities, tensions and
conflicts people face. Every person has his share of difficulties. You have yours and the
person you are envying has his of a different kind.

12. Don’t waste time in foolish discussions (Tit.3:9)
Some believers need to improve their stature by imbibing such qualities as
broadmindedness and tolerance from Jesus. He never made an issue of ‘jewelry.’
Perhaps this helps to explain why women were comfortable in his presence. Women
can wear whatever they want. It’s none of our business to tell what they can and can’t
wear. If they’re more comfortable wearing pendants let them. If they’re more
comfortable painting their lips, then let them do it. That is personal stuff. They should
not be made subservient to the desires of a few people who think that plain looking is
God fearing. That’s their idea of spirituality not God’s. Such quibbling should be left
aside. Time should not be wasted on it. These gentlemen don’t know the God of the
Bible properly (1Sam.16:7). If they knew Him, they wouldn’t be talking like this. Brothers
should ensure that their sisters enjoy their liberty in Christ.
Use the gift God has given you (2Tim.1:6)
Every person has been given a gift by God. Every person has his own little specialty. All
gifts – be it that of preaching, administration or helping – are equally important. They
cannot be compared. A church cannot be built without our individual contributions. Use
your gift not to outshine everybody else, to show that you have good pipes, to prove
your mettle or to make a name for yourself. Use it with one desire - to help people.
Be a peacemaker (Jas.3:18)
Sometimes egos can get in the way a little bit and cause fires. When the fires rise, be
an extinguisher. Try to resolve disagreements between people, cement the cracks
caused in friendships. A peacemaker is well respected by unbelievers. He can break
barriers that carnal believers are not able to.
Wait for the Lord to come to your defense (Prov.20:22)
When someone treats you shabbily or hatches a conspiracy against you, you can go
back to your old ways and call that person a ‘liar’ or a ‘snake.’ But if you maintain a stoic
silence, not offering a word in either explanation or defense of yourself, God will come
to your defense. That’s guaranteed.
Don’t irritate others (Gal.5:26)
Some people do not mature with age. They remain spoilsports till their dying day. They
make judgments like, “That sister with lipstick is evil,” even though she may not have a
mean bone in her body, and “That brother who comes dressed in white is good” even
though he may be harassing his wife at home. We are individuals with different tastes.
Let’s not have problems with someone else’s choice of things.
Don’t be a hypocrite (Gal.2:13; Amos 5:21-23)
What one sees of a person from far away can be very different from knowing that
person from close quarters. It’s like lifting up a nice looking rock and seeing ants and
worms underneath it. There are a number of believers out there who beat their wives
behind closed doors and then come out in the open preaching religion to the public.
Don’t be a hypocrite.

13. Be a good servant of God (Gal.1:10; Jonah 3:3,4)
Apostle Paul was one of the few preachers from that period who never watered down
his message. Once he even made Peter beet red by giving him a dressing down in front
of everyone. Preachers who blunt the edges of hard-hitting sermons, which they copy
from the Internet, should learn from him. If you want to give a diluted version because
you don’t want to offend anybody you are unfit to hold that responsible post. You’re
useless as God’s servant. These kinds of sermons won’t please everyone (people who
are two-faced will hate you bluntness) you preach them to but they’re necessary. That’s
what Christianity is about – keeping man in line and keeping ourselves in line first.
Don’t compare yourself with anyone else (Gal.6:4-5)
Jesus is the person we should measure ourselves by. If you look over your shoulder too
much, keeping track of other peoples work, it will lead to an awareness of your
inadequacies especially when you see them doing effortlessly what you can’t. Be like a
horse with blinkers trying to run really fast on your own. It will help you achieve
whatever God sent you on earth for.
Restrain your anger (Prov.19:11; Ruth 2:15,16)
Screaming your lungs out at your wife because a tie is missing or throwing a fit at you
servant because an egg is not properly fried is bad behavior. If you continue to scream
yourself hoarse you will have to undergo throat surgery soon. So for your own good
don’t stoop to such behavior. Keep a check on your temper and stay cool
Be generous (Prov.11:24-25)
If you have more food than you can chew don’t throw it in the waste bin. Spare a
thought for those who are roughing it out in the world. Pack the stuff and go give it to a
beggar.
Phrase words carefully (Mat.12:36-37)
One of the things we have to account for on the Day of Judgment is the use of our
tongue. Making digs that dent other people’s self esteem, blurting our words that send
someone into a state of depression, broaching subjects that make people feel uneasy is
bad. Be considerate and careful of how you phrase your words if you don’t want to feel
small on that big day.
Keep your promise (Num.30:2; 2Chro.36:13)
Looking at the number of spiritual meetings being held in the cities of our country, we
could modify an old nursery rhyme and sing, “Here a meet, there a meet, everywhere a
meet, meet.” But these meetings serve no useful purpose as people slip into slumber
soon after. They say ‘yes’ during decision time and then go their own way doing quite
the opposite with little sense of breaking a promise or agreement. Keep the promise that
you make to God.

14. Love spouse (Col.3:19)
Both husband and wife are lying on the same bed but there is a lot of distance between
them. All the fun is gone. It’s got to a point where they can’t handle being around one
another. Maybe it’s the wife’s prickliness, the husband’s domineering spirit or the
mother in law who has poisoned her son’s mind against her daughter in law. The secret
of a happy marriage is love. Accept your wife’s mood swings and listen to her constant
whining patiently. Don’t seek the unattainable perfection in your husband. Many years
from now you both will be sitting together without your teeth, playing with your grand
children and going down memory lane blushing about your self-centeredness.
Be decent (Rom.13:13)
On the professional front, let your reputation be spotless. It is the Biblical standard that
you have to live up to. Be different from those men who disappear during work hours to
smoke and waste time. Handle insults in a dignified manner. Such things shouldn’t
bother you. Your joy should remain unspoiled. That’ll make a lasting impression on
observers and expand your sphere of influence.
Confess and forsake sins (Prov.28:13)
Some try to hide their sins, stubbornly persevering in an attempt to save face. Admit
your sin. It is not an easy thing to do but it is the only way to have cordial relations with
God.
Respect the aged (Lev.19:32)
You should respect old people. When you see an old lady entering a bus, stand up to
give her a seat. Their sunken cheeks are not meant to be pulled nor should their eating
mannerisms be imitated or laughed at.
Encourage others (1Thes.5:11)
There are people with inner struggles and battles in their marriage or relationships at
work that are tearing them apart. Only those who have a heart can notice their
downcast faces. Invite such people to your house. Just spending time with them over a
cup of tea will make them feel better. With you encouraging words you can talk them out
of their depression and help them to carry on. That’s what Christian living is about –
touching people’s lives. It takes very little to be hospitable.
Don’t despise believers from other groups (Gal.5:20b)
Because you haven’t had certain experiences, you can’t say that they’re all rubbish, for
in other churches, there are people who’ve had/are having such experiences. Calling a
group meeting down the road a cult or a hopelessly misguided one is shooting your own
foot for we are all the body of Christ. Stop judging others just because they don’t
prescribe to your doctrines. Learn to like people who disagree with you.

15. Chapter 3
Turn from all wickedness (2Tim.2:19b; Zech.7:10b)
When people stand and stare at us it’s hard not to do the same back. When David’s
enemy Saul entered the cave he was in, he could have hacked him to pieces there and
then. But Saul was spared. Anybody else wouldn’t have let the chance slip. People like
David in our churches can be counted on the fingers of one hand. We have to turn away
from all wickedness. Change can only come from within by means of our own personal
effort.
Accept criticisms in the right spirit (Prov.12:1)
Take criticisms in the right spirit. They will benefit you immensely. People who observe
you from close quarters know the areas you can improve in. Begin working on what they
have told you. Try to correct yourself. If you want to advance in life don’t distance
yourself from critics. It’s another matter that they can’t tell it in a way that does not
offend or hurt because of their immaturity.
Don’t misuse your freedom (Gal.5:13-14)
People take advantage of the liberal attitude of their church leaders by throwing
modesty and decency into the dustbin. We’re not saying that you wear Victorian outfits.
All we’re saying is don’t dress like the heathen. Walk the middle path between these two
extremes.
Don’t be greedy (Col.3:5)
Some believers don’t do drugs, but they eat chocolate greedily and pamper their taste
buds with harmful delicacies. God is watching how we are spending our money. He is
watching how much you spend on buying clothes every month. He is testing us all the
time. You may feel every single paisa you spend on yourself is justified. But longing for
the good things of this life is idolatry say the scriptures.
Prove that you belong to God (1John 2:4)
Baby cobras are easy to identify. Even when they are a few days old, they raise their
heads when disturbed or when angry. The devil’s children are easy to identify too. They
strike like lighting when hurt. Merely going to church every Sunday doesn’t prove that
you are God’s child obeying all His commands does.
Have a tender conscience (Prov.28:14)
The bus conductor in a government bus is at first hesitant to pass on the same ticket to
a passenger. His conscience is loud and clear. But he chooses to ignore it consistently
till a day comes when it no longer speaks to him and he cheats unashamedly. This is
exactly how demons get believers in the palms of their hands.

16. Respect everyone (Jas.2:1-4)
A mosque is a place where everybody is equal. Our churches need to be like that.
Where people don’t feel awkward. It is a matter of concern that people from the lower
strata are not given respect in some churches. If they were pet cats and dogs they
would probably have got better treatment. Their English may be butchered a bit but
they’re still equal to you as human beings. Treat them nicely. Don’t behave like your
ancestors did in the past. All aloofness should vanish.
Pray to God directly (Heb.4:16)
The Roman Catholics go to God through Mary while Protestants go to Him through their
pastors. So if you are a pastor you have people sending you prayer emails all the time
and you have to delete some old mail to free up space in your mailbox. It’s become a
fashion to say, “Pray for me.” We’re not against intercessory prayers. At times they are
necessary – when a person is demon possessed for example (Acts 16:16-18). It’s just
that believers need to go to their Father directly and believe that He has heard. If you
pray sincerely there is no need of the prayers of hundred others. God won’t change His
will no matter how many people pray. Your pastor praying for you won’t lead to you
getting extra grace. Students should study well in advance before the exams because
prayers are not going to alter the marks.
Be humble (Mat.18:4)
Proud Nebuchadnezzar was knocked off his pedestal. Let this be a lesson for us not to
be conceited like a barber’s cat. If people who have great resumes are not humble one
day the hand of God will hit them and make them fall flat on their faces.
Don’t spread myths (Jer.27:14-16)
“If you pray to Jesus by faith you’ll get better.” This is one of the myths spread by
believers. Those who are not well versed in the Bible talk like that. Let’s not feed people
around us with illusions. Are we omniscient to reassure sick people that they’ll get
better?
Don’t damage sense organs (Lev.24:19-20)
When believers congregate in small rooms without vents they are subject to high
decibel levels from various sources that are detrimental to their hearing. One of the
culprits is the Indian musical instrument called the Dholak. The noise it makes can hurt
one’s eardrums. Then there are Bible College students who use churches as a testing
ground for their lungpower. Believers too clap hard. Now don’t stand there with your
arms folded. Clap, but gently. God is not deaf. Preach, sing and pray without straining
your voice. Don’t damage your brother’s sense organ.
Endure trials (Mal.3:3; Is.48:10)
If you know anything about God, you know that he never gives up on His children’s
training. He wants them to be shining gems. Gems cannot be polished without friction. It
is time you recognized trials for what they really are. Don’t complain next time God
takes you to the polishing house. Make the best use of the ordeal you are forced to
endure.

17. Grow up (1Pet.2:2)
It’s unfortunate that even after attending church for years some believers are still at the
babbling stage. Their minds haven’t progressed. If you are going to be the pastor of
these big babies, first of all you’ll need a degree in psychiatry and secondly you’ll need
to be good in singing lullabies. These childish believers need to grow up.
Share each other’s troubles (Gal.6:2)
Caring about others – trying to lead someone through a rough patch, protecting a weak
brother, shutting the mouth of a person who brings despair to those around, taking a
homeless child under your wing, helping a brother who is poor – is being a good
Christian. For some Christians, giving an inch is fine, but a yard is a definite no. In the
Bible we find that God is extremely concerned about the poor. A poor brother in your
church needs a bit more than your prayers. Obedience to the law of Christ should make
a difference to your wallet.
Take religion to your work place (Mat.28:19-20)
Some people who follow Jesus keep quiet in the office, to avoid the scorn of their work
mates. That’s sad. The Hindus can afford to do such things but you shouldn’t leave your
religion at home. Actions speak louder than words, yes. But words are equally
important. You don’t want the pied piper (Lucifer) leading people over the wharf, do
you? Gospel sharing opportunities should not be squandered.
Be thankful (1Thes.5:18)
In life it’s very important to be thankful. If you’ve got complaints against God, look at
less fortunate people and all your grievances will melt away. When you go to a slum
and look at the socially deprived there who are having a tough time eking out a decent
living your complaints will stop as you will get a deep awareness of being blessed
beyond reckoning.
Don’t be envious (Gal.5:26)
You listen to your friend’s wife who is a good soloist and keyboardist and say, “I wish
my wife could sing like that or play like that.” Don’t be jealous. If your wife can’t sing like
a nightingale surely she can do certain tasks better than your friend’s wife who is a
lousy housekeeper. Your friend has not told surely you that he does the cooking at
home so his wife can get time to practice on the instrument.
Be religious even when it’s costly (Dan.6:1-10)
You overhear people saying, “Brother, I want to have quiet time in the morning but it’s
very cold these days. I don’t fell like getting up.” Despite a temperature of 5 degree
Celsius, a Muslim in North India gets up at 5 o’clock in the morning and says his
prayers. It’s all a matter of priorities. If fellowship with God is important to you, the
temperature will mean nothing. You’ll wake up and have your quiet time.

18. Use the strength God gives you (Phil.4:13)
Accept the challenges of life instead of running away from them. With the help of Christ
who gives you the strength, you can handle any situation life thrusts upon you. If there
are obstacles, you can jump over them. If someone pushes you into a pit, you can climb
out of it. The deep roots of any bad habit can be pulled out. Instead of complaining, take
the initiative to solve problems. Make lemonade with the lemons handed to you.
Be a true minister of God (2Cor.6:4-10)
Some top mission leaders cannot say like apostle Paul, “We patiently endure troubles
and hardship and calamites of every kind.” Because they face none. The junior brothers
get manhandled when they go for outreach. It’s easy for the seniors to say, “The blood
of the martyrs is the seed of the church” while sending youngsters to mission fields
because it won’t be their blood that’ll be spilt. The poor junior brothers work tirelessly
and remain unsung heroes. Ask the bigwigs when was the last time they shared the
gospel with someone? Years ago perhaps. They have forgotten what it is like to suffer.
Now all they are used to is going abroad, staying in nice guest rooms, delivering
touching speeches and raising money part of which gets transferred into their personal
accounts before they reach mission base. These leaders are as crooked as a dog’s hind
leg. Junior brothers face financial hardships because these cheaters pocket the lion’s
share of the funds that come and give them chicken feed. Your head will start to spin if
you get to hear what else these leaders do and probably you’ll lose all respect for them.
People who run orphanages are also guilty for they use orphanage funds for the welfare
of their own blood children and the poor orphans get to eat the same food everyday. For
telling the truth, these people may get mad at us (as mad as a struck snake) but we are
not here to please. If they don’t repent, one day they’ll stew in their own juice.
Be a good Christian (1Tim.4:12)
To keep your kitchen burner on you travel everyday to your place of work far away. By
the end of the day you get physically and mentally exhausted. You just want to go home
and fall asleep. You don’t feel like reading the Bible. No problem. God understands. He
knows how tired you get and in fact He is pleased with you for working hard to feed your
wife and children. At the end of the day if you can be a good husband, father, son and a
good Christian at your place of work – being polite, not getting into fights and acting on
the Biblical principles you already know, you’ve done your job.
Be united (Eph.4:3)
In India, it is difficult to shake off caste, regional and denominational feelings. So in spite
of your best efforts you will not be able to unite certain believers because they will
always want to remain in separate camps. It will be an exercise in futility. There’ll also
be that believer who is a difficult personality. You’ll have a long-term relationship with
him but it’ll always be rocky. The Devil too will drive a wedge between the most co-
operating of folks. The glue that can hold believers together is the respect and love they
have for one another. Love makes people leave their animosities behind.

19. Correct your brothers gently (Gal.6:1)
May be while checking the Temporary Internet Folders of your office computer, you find
out that your colleague who is a believer enjoys obscene sites on the net. You shouldn’t
shake with excitement and remark, “Such a hypocrite!”, and try to present your
discovery in a dramatic way to others. Don’t commit this mindless crime. By a few well-
chosen words you should make him realize that by doing that He is causing Jesus pain
till he exclaims, “Oh God, what have I done?” and begs for forgiveness.
Be good to animals (Num.22:32; Prov.12:10).
Yesterday as you stepped out of your door you found your newspaper shred to pieces
by your neighbor’s dog for the umpteenth time. You got mad and kicked him hard. Then
you went to church and offered money to God. God was not at all pleased with you
(Mat.9:13). He wants us to be merciful to those who do wrong intentionally or
unintentionally. In this case, the poor beast did not have anything to play with and made
use of your paper. To make amends go today to a supermarket and buy a nice soft ball
for the dog. Don’t be cruel to animals. God has a concern for them (Jonah 4:11).
Don’t feel lonely (1John 4:16)
Lonely people long for affection and when they don’t get it they become sad, turn to
alcohol, drugs, and sex or commit suicide. If only they knew that they are not alone on
the journey of life and that there is a God who cares for them (Eph.3:17-19)! A person
who is conscious of God’s presence and love cannot be lonely. He doesn’t mind if
people don’t love him. He is happy in his friendship with God. He talks to God daily and
listens when God talks to him. But there are people who need human beings as friends
too to get rid of loneliness. If you are that type and don’t know how to make friends here
is a piece of advice. In order to make friends you have to be friendly. Being friendly
means being nice to people and treating them with respect. A courteous and warm-
hearted person who goes out of his way to help others is rarely without friends.
Respect your parents (Eph.6:2)
When someone asks you what your father’s occupation is, if he is in a managerial
position you will proudly say so but if he is involved with manual work you may be
tempted to tell a half truth. You should never be ashamed of your father’s job, whatever
it may be, so long as he is not stealing. He may be the person who collects rubbish from
a locality and dumps it outside your town. But he is an important man to society. If he
didn’t do that, harmful germs would breed and result in the death of many people. Your
father may be the one who cleans dishes or wipes tables in a restaurant. Do you know
that there would be no restaurants in the world if there were no cleaners? Take pride in
your father’s job. Through his hard work, he feeds you, your family and the needy. Give
him the respect that he deserves.
Don’t quarrel with younger brothers (2Tim.2:24)
In conservative churches, the younger generation’s not happy with the way the older
generation’s running the churches. Old people can be quite difficult when it comes to an
issue like music for example. They still like the old hymns very much and tell you that

20. they have no favorites from today. If you ask them why, they say because the old ones
are meaningful unlike the ones of today. As if the Holy Spirit only inspired writers of the
bygone era. When people make statements like these they automatically distance
themselves from the youth.
It is good to look at the overflowing charismatic churches around us and study their
features. There they play songs that are melodic and groovy and those that don’t put
you to sleep. The youths jump and dance and have a good time. You may think that
people who do that are total mental cases. But that is what youths like. There is an
atmosphere of joy there. As they already experience enough misery and gloom in the
world throughout the week they don’t want to go to a gloomy church on Sunday. They
find serious hymns a bit off target to their taste. For things to change our elders could do
some occasional handclapping to start with. Make an attempt to capture the dwindling,
not-so-interested in theological jargons, want-it-groovy, young attendance.

21. Chapter 4
Pursue godliness and unfailing love (Prov.21:21)
As a child you were written of as ‘good for nothing’ by your partial father. He always
downplayed the importance of your achievements and pulled your confidence down. It
took you years to get over that. You forgave him for his bad behavior but not fully for
now he is old and in need of your help as your sibling that he loved dearly is no more.
You have no intention of going there as you think it is your time for retaliation. Friend, let
your bad childhood be a closed chapter. Fiddling with it again will be like opening the
Pandora’s box. Throw all unwanted baggage overboard once and for all and go help the
old man. When he sees his child that he was unjust to, come back to help him he may
have a cardiac arrest.
Admire the beauty of God’s creation (Ps.8:3-4; 19:1)
David lay on his back looking at the moon and the stars and got inspired to write psalms
of praise. Some people don’t take the time to admire the beauty of God’s creation. They
just want to spread the Word and think that going for a picnic is ‘wrong.’ You need not
be somber and serious always. God wants you to have a whale of a time on earth.
Maybe you like to dress in simple outfits. But if your children are style conscious and
want to dress well don’t stop them.
Be meek (Num.12:3; Obad. 2-4)
Bible intellects are here in plenty. Their wealth of Biblical and extra Biblical knowledge
could fill a few encyclopedic volumes. Even difficult mysteries are easy for them to
explain. These people set the bar very high for others but have yet to learn from fellow
Bible scholar Paul of Tarsus to be humble. Their dislike for anyone with opposing views
or the acidic manner in which they say, “Pay attention,” when you request them to
repeat something they have said in class is distressing.
Overcome fear (Josh.1:6)
You are a good guitarist in your bedroom but once, when you stood in front of your
church believers, you just froze. Even today you feel embarrassed about that. Instead of
allowing shame to take control, be positive and give it one more try. Try to make your
way through difficult situations. That is the best way to overcome fear. Perhaps you
don’t have the courage to confront someone who has done wrong. Try it once. It will be
easier the second time.
Don’t worship people (Dan.3:16-18)
Some believers follow healing preachers around like puppies, take their word as the
cardinal truth and almost worship them. The way they describe these preachers you can
see a halo looming inches over their heads. If you go to their meetings hoping to get
some pearls of wisdom all you’ll get to hear are words like ‘glory to Jesus’ and
‘halleluiah’ repeated over and over again. If you listen to their advice, “Believe that you
are healed and throw away your glasses brother,” you’ll suffer loss as you will have to

22. visit an optical shop the following day to get a new pair of glasses. These preachers
don’t know the ABC of prayer even. They pray to Jesus and even the Holy Spirit when
the Bible says that we have to pray to the Father in Jesus’ name (John 15:16;
Eph.5:20). Gullible believers need to put on their thinking caps so they don’t get
deceived by these bogus Christian sadhu babas.
Stay calm when wronged (Prov.12:16)
Your enemy has twisted things you said into things you didn’t actually say and has
blown your righteous image into smithereens. Instead of calling to give him a piece of
your mind show him your class. Be good to him. Such behavior will put you on par with
godly people like Joseph and Daniel. Your enemy will never feel more petty in his life.
That victorious smile of his will fast turn into a shameful look.
Don’t panic (Prov.14:30; Mark 4:35-40)
If your boat goes through rough weather, don’t panic (people who panic get ulcers) for
Jesus is with you. You will come out of the storm together. Jesus sticks with His own
through thick and thin. If dirt has been kicked by your adversaries, relax. It will settle
down. Don’t get worked up giving explanations to defend yourself.
Live a life of steady goodness (Jas.3:13)
It is unfortunate that we have believers who go half a mile and that’s it, they don’t go
any further that that. Praise God there are others who are doing a lot with their lives in
order to make this world a better place. Some of them have chosen to remain single to
serve society. These people deserve a salute. Make it your aim to be like them.
Knocking down racial barriers between people could be your mission.
Don’t limit yourself (1Sam.17:33-51)
You can either allow people to compartmentalize you or go ahead do what they say you
can’t and thus make them eat humble pie. Choose the later. Try not to be bothered
about what people have said. It will only paralyze you. Why should you care about what
people who don’t have grey matter in their skulls say?
Shake hands with all (Acts 10:14-15)
Attending the same church for many years makes people think in a certain way – that
they are the chosen few who will go to a nebulous place. While God wants His children
to be united, these people want to remain in their own wells. They are so stuck with
labeling others as ‘false’ and ‘heathen’ it makes God sick. If they were mature enough
they would know that the same God who works with them works with others as well.
You can try all you want but they will retain the same mindset they’ve had for many
years now. Let’s not be like them. They read books only written by people from their
denomination. Let us read books written by people from all denominations.
Don’t listen to legalists (Gal.2:4-5; Eccle.9:7,8)
Some believers raise irrelevant issues like ‘long hair’, ‘TV’ and so on. They tell you, “I
think you should do this, shouldn’t do this.” Everything is permissible unless there is a
verse or a principle in the Bible to forbid us. What we wear, what we eat, what we listen

23. to and where we go are for us to decide. Don’t listen to a preacher tell you that if you
don’t submit to him, this and that is going to happen to you. Don’t stop living how you
are because someone else wants you to. Christ did not die for our freedom so that we
could be muzzled by some narrow-minded people. If you want to keep long hair keep by
all means. To God a pure heart is everything.
Don’t offend your brother (1Cor.8:13)
It seems that the dance bandwagon is the cool thing to hop on nowadays. Maybe you
don’t understand people who stand still in church and are saying about a brother who
opposes dancing in church, “That fellow is such a kill joy. If he doesn’t like to dance, he
should stay at home.” Talking like that shows that you have scant regard for the feelings
of your brother. If dancing is dear to you than your brother, you’ve lost sight of what’s
important.
Remain true to the Lord (Mat.13:22)
When a non-Christian accepts the Lord he is faced with waves of persecution. Since he
doesn’t want these complications he chooses to compromise. Remain true to the Lord
friend for one day the time may finally turn in your favor and a crop may be produced.
Bakht Singh’s family members opposed him initially but were later won to the Lord.
Don’t have a herd mentality (Ex.32)
If you read history, you will find that the people who stood out were those who thought
differently from whatever was seen as the norm of the time. Because of their closeness
to God, they could spot conventional wisdom that was wrong. Don’t go with the flow
always. Your herd mentality may take you over the cliff.
Listen to advice (Acts 18:26)
Some of us feel that it’s better to watch grass grow than listen to certain preachers
preach. We don’t find their long sermons edifying and can’t wait to get out of the church.
Pastors, you should probably condense your message down to three to four pages if
you want people to pay attention. Realize that a lot of people skip breakfast to be on
time to church and get hungry by the time your turn comes to preach. You may wonder
what we are talking about because every Sunday people tell you that they have been
challenged by your message. They are the dishonest ones. Change yourself before
your long sermons drive honest people away.
Walk in the Spirit (Gal.5:25)
Unbelievers dig out skeletons which were long buried, tear one another apart, etc. One
cannot expect anything better from them but we believers should be a little more
decent. The fire and bodies of Sodom and Gomorrah are a warning to tell us what will
become of us if we are going to like on like this. Go through the sin lists given in the
Bible with a magnifying glass and make sure that you don’t commit any of those sins.
Don’t preach wrong doctrines (2Pet. 2:1-5; Ps.119:104)
There are ministers who preach that God will continue to love you no matter how you
live. But, Nah.1:2-3; Zeph.1:12-13, 17; Eph.5:6 and many other verses tell us quite the

24. opposite - that the terrible anger of God comes upon all those who disobey Him. These
words may be a bit hard to digest, but they’re true. They sum up God’s feelings when
people sin. God is not a partial grandfather. He is just. He has no tolerance whatsoever
for sin. He has no alternative but to take to task those who enjoy the sins that put His
Son on the cross.
Those who disobey Jesus are in danger of losing His love (John 15:9-10). If you don’t
stick with Him all the way through you will experience the fires of hell (John 15:6). In the
Old Testament we read of many Israelites who thought themselves to be God’s special
pets. They were wrong in believing that He would not punish them. God’s patience got
exhausted and they had to face judgment (Lam.1&2). If you don’t mend your ways,
know that the writing is on the wall for you to be severely punished.
Unfortunately, many people read only John 3:16. But the truth is found in John 3:16 plus
Mat.19:17 (NLT) - Jesus replied, “You can receive eternal life if you keep the
commandments.” You do not have eternal life if you believe in Jesus and do what you
want. You have eternal life if you believe in Jesus and do what He wants. Try telling this
to an elder of a conservative church and he’ll probably accuse you of propagating the
theory of salvation by works. And eventually you’ll get sick of trying to explain. It’s
disheartening that even after reading the Bible for years, people still refuse to see
reason and continue to preach their pet theories. It’s similar to the situation in Zeph.3:1-
4. Finally it will dawn on them, in hell that both belief and behavior were necessary to
receive eternal life.
Overlook wrongs (Prov.19:11)
By stuffing a banana in the exhaust pipe of you enemy’s vehicle you show that you are
no better than worldly people. But if you take a banana and offer it to him in your coffee
break you are showing that you are Christ like. As you mature, you realize that when
you are insulted it’s best to keep quiet (1Pet.2:23). When you make quite a stir by giving
others a taste of their own medicine, you invariably end up spoiling everything - your
Christian testimony. You make things more ugly. Why is it wise to forgive? Because you
will be known and liked. Who knows? Even that person who hurt you may cry loudly on
your shoulder and say, “What I did was terribly wrong. Please forgive me.”
Don’t judge others (John 9:2)
We form opinions and judgments very quickly based on limited information. And we’re
not accurate much of the time. You remember when people did that to you; you had a
sore throat clarifying the issue. They made it a bigger issue than it was. We need to try
to see people in the best light.
Live in peace with others (1Pet.3:11)
James in his epistle says, “My dear brothers and sisters, be quick to listen, slow to
speak, and slow to get angry (1:19-NLT).” Since we human beings have a huge
capacity for misunderstanding one another, it is important that we listen carefully. Those
who have big mouths should be slow to speak to avoid altercation. If you are a person
who is in the habit of throwing tantrums all over you should get a self-help book or take
a course on how to deal with anger.

25. Bring glory to God (John 17:4)
While we live on this planet, our main goal should be to bring glory to God. We can
achieve this by doing everything He has given us to do. For mothers it is preparing
meals for her family everyday and changing nappies of the young ones. Fathers have to
bring home the bacon by sweating it out at the work place. Both have to raise their
children in the fear of God. Children need to respect their parents and study hard. All
should love one another. This is how God’s name gets glorified.
Speak against discrimination (Jas.2:1-9)
Our churches have been infiltrated by the forces of evil. We see discrimination based on
caste. We wonder if these casteists have a brain at all? What if they were treated like
that? If Phinehas of the Old Testament were alive he would have lined up these racists
against a wall for assassination. In your own little way, you should rebel against this
devilish system if it is there in your church.
Don’t compare leaders (1Sam.18:6-9)
Never say the words, “So-and-so is a better leader than so-and-so or so-and-so is not
the right man for this job.” Some unwise ladies compared young David with King Saul.
Saul always resented David for this and this resentment caused him later to try to take
David’s life.
If a person is not good you can help him to be good with your support. It is discouraging
for a man to overhear that someone else is better than him or that he is not capable of
handling a particular job. It leads to resentment, stress, jealousy, suspicion, insecurity
and other negative reactions. Even unspoken thoughts can be heard loudly by your
actions. A man can function best when he knows that he has the loyal support of others
in spite of his limitations. Speaking well of your leader is the best contribution that you
can make in his life and in your organization.
Behave like God’s child (Eph.5:8)
A person may claim to be Christian and loving the Lord but do her actions prove this?
She has a different dress code while going to church but when she goes to college, you
can’t even differentiate between unbelievers and her.
Live like Jesus did (1John 2:6)
Living like Jesus did means being big hearted. The intensity of our love for others
should be such that we go out of our way to help them. It means becoming more
socially responsible – raising your voice to fight social evils and standing for the rights of
the oppressed. You could work for various charities. You may be as poor as a church
mouse but you could at least make people aware of the problems others face. To be
silent when it is proper to speak indicates that a person is not living like Christ did.

26. Restrain your thought life (Mark 7:20-23)
All the wickedness in this world is caused by the mind. The way to victory over sin is
through the restraint of thought. The way you think changes the way you act. It helps
you get control of your impulse and desires.

27. Chapter 5
Folks, you can change the habits of a lifetime with God's help. Those who scrutinize
every word and gesture of others to find faults, those who talk badly about others after
they have left the room, those who are vehement in their criticisms, those who throw
darts etc. can all change. By choosing your words carefully, you can be a person who
puts a big smile on a person's face. People may faint looking at your new behavior.
Better later than never.
Endure trials (2Pet.1:6c)
Maybe the pressures are just too heavy for you to bear and you are crying. Talk to God.
He can reach where no human being can. Just a few more years, friend. Up there you
will be all smiles. We don't know when Jesus will come back. It may be tomorrow. So
when there's time let's spread the gospel that we know a bit further.
Conquer evil by doing good (Rom.12:21)
When a person irritates you, you can look at him angrily and ask him what his problem
is or you can take it in your stride. As Christians we need forgiving hearts. Do good to
that fellow. He is going to end up looking like an ass. Down here, despite our good
intentions many a times we will get misunderstood. But it is enough if God knows you
are a beautiful soul.
Exercise self control (1Pet.1:13)
If you don't exercise self-control, the Lord will give you poor marks when he returns and
cast you into the bottomless pit. Enough of praying that others may be granted
salvation. Do something about yourself. We are speaking particularly to mission leaders
who are being honored today. You are fiery when shouting gospel truths at people. Be
careful with your personal life or else you'll end up getting roasted like a pig.
Be content (1Tim.1:6-10)
Maybe you are frustrated in life because of your middle class life. Friend, if you are
content you can have peace in life. You have the basic necessities of life. What else do
you need? Do you want to know a sad truth? There are millions of people in our country
who don't have roofs over their heads and don't get enough to eat. Not even a decent
meal a day. Praise God for giving you everything that you need.
Take a firm stand against the Devil (1Pet.5:8,9)
Even if the Devil is a powerful being, you don't need to quake in your boots when you
hear his name. If you are obedient to God, you can cause damage to the Devil's plans.
When his meddling brethren realize that you are not ready to give up without a fight they
will turn tail and flee. By fighting we don't mean that you act like those carnal believers
who show their bravado in church by saying words like, "We resist you Devil in the
name of Jesus" with 'authority' when they are living impure lives secretly. They are like
those ducks in a pond that will one day get trapped and eaten.

28. Humble yourself (Num.12:1,3, 9-16)
Some people in our churches in India talk so much about belonging to one big family of
God but when it comes to marriage they seem to choose brothers and sisters only from
certain castes and class. That speaks a lot about them. Pathetic is how we would call
their behavior. Pathetic because they still think like caste minded Hindus. It's hard to
believe that these so called believers are really born again. There needs to be a change
in mindset.
If there is even a tinge of respect missing in a person's voice when he speaks to
someone from a lower caste he is a Hindu even if he calls himself a Christian and
attends church every Sunday. Reminds us of that saying - What good will it do an ass if
you call it a lion?
Remember that this world is not our home (1Pet.2:11)
We may live in any country down here but it is not our home. Satan will try his level best
to prevent you from going to your house up there that Jesus is building for you. Be
careful therefore. Making bags of money should not be your goal in life. Money will not
last forever. We came down here with nothing and we will go up with nothing. Knowing
Christ and making Him known is what we have been kept here for.
Do what you are supposed to (Jas.4:17)
Lydia was a cloth merchant but that was not all that she did in life. She helped God's
servants too. The Good Samaritan was another person like her. He rolled up his
sleeves to help a needy man. You too can imitate them. May be just hold the hand of an
old man who wants to cross the street. And when you help, don't yell about it to the
whole world.
Be happy when insulted for being a Christian (1Pet.4:16)
If you want to share the gospel with the lost, you will have to encounter many
embarrassing moments. Like you may get smacked hard on your face or you may be
called the servant of white skinned people in America. If your own family members
(believers) can smile to your face and stab you in your back, what can you expect from
unbelievers? Gospel sharing requires a lot of guts. We have to share the good news
whether people like it or not. If you are timid, pray to God and He will give you the
boldness to speak. Make a decision that you will be a witness for God from now
onwards. He can put steel in your spine. You have to keep knocking doors like the
Jehovah’s Witnesses even if you know that what you experience once the doors open
may not be pleasant.
Don't be proud (1Cor.13:2)
When we hear a believer pronouncing an English word wrongly, a whiff of pride can fill
our chests because we know to say it rightly. But don't let it because there are hundreds
of others who know better English than you. Your brother may not know proper English
but He loves God and that is important.
Crave for spiritual milk (1Pet.2:2)

29. Feed yourself with the letters of Paul, Peter and others. They will make you rethink your
priorities. Learn to read the Bible regardless of your moods. Some people think that the
Bible is a boring book because they have read it over and over again since their
childhood. But if you love God, you will enjoy the book. You don't get tired of your
lover's letters or watching cricket matches, do you? It is a book that will help you when
you are sailing through rough waters.
Remember why you are here for (Jas.1:27 )
While some believers struggle to make ends met, there are others who are living like
maharajas. They spend like there's no tomorrow. If God has blessed you, think about
the less fortunate. Ask poor folks if they have enought money to get by. If they don't,
give sufficient money to tide them over.
Accept trials gracefully (1Pet.1:7)
In this world you'll rarely see a day when everything is going well. Everyday there will be
something or someone turning at your door and trying to make life difficult for you. If it's
a person don't go after him with a cricket bat. Yes, he may be a loony. But don't hold
that anything against him because God has sent him your way to make you strong and
pure.
Don't lord it over people (1Pet.5:3)
Oldies who want to influence the younger generation for God should treat them like
human beings. A person should not feel that he is being treated like an animal or your
personal servant. How many of our senior mission leaders who pamper their blood
children would wash the plates of junior brothers after a meal? These junior brothers
may be calling you anna (sarcastically ofcourse) and carrying your suitcases only to get
promoted. But inside they have lost respect for you.
Jesus washed the dirty feet of his disciples. We want to see senior mission leaders
doing that. No, not our feet. They are clean because we change socks everyday. But
our plates, yes.
Don't repay evil or evil (1Pet.3:9; Job 42:10)
Some believers analyse every single word of their enemies to find something they can
use against them. Instead of lowering himself to name calling, a Christian should bite
his tongue when people hurt him. Onlookers will think that you are really an awesome
person. That's the sort of stuff that people remember. Your enemy will end up looking
like a jerk.
Be patient (2Pet.1:6b)
God has given you will power. It can help you to be tolerant. So if someone (it may be
that person who carries a big Bible under his arm while going to church and gives out
religious tracts when other believers are watching) is giving you plenty of headaches,
don't use your loaded sling. Instead, clamp your lips firmly together. Thus your tolerance
will stretch far.

30. Be like God (1Pet.1:15)
As you grow you become more loving, more forgiving, more patient etc. It isn't easy to
forgive, forget and move on. But you have to do that to save yourself agony that comes
through revenge. Some believers aren't ready to let go. They'll pay the price for this
ungodly decision for years. Forgiving others is necessary. That is the kind of love that
God wants from us - forgiving people who have hurt us deeply, putting up with people
who have foul temper etc.
Don't chase after evil desires (1Pet.4:2)
Worldly people are interested in making as much money as possible before they grow
old. Money has become the focal point of their lives. Money controls the lives of many
Christians too. They save and save and save and one fine day they die and go up
leaving everything behind. You can either chase money like a dog runs after a bone or
teach fellow believers through your life that money is not the most important thing in life.
In this way you will help others who have lost their sight to regain their vision. To truly
make a difference in this country we need people who think differently. Then only those
tall claims about being citizens of heaven and so on will have some effect on
unbelievers.
Grow (2Pet.1:8)
The more you grow to become like Jesus the more you can penetrate fortress
Hinduism. Good character makes an impression on people. There are people who have
been Christian for years but who are still like 6 year old kids. They sulk, they fight, they
are possessive etc. They need to learn to offer kind words to others and to understand
why problematic nerds act the way they do.
Forgive others (Mat.18:21)
If you don't respond to injuries properly, you won't grow, irrespective of whether you
have your quiet time everyday or are on the prayer list of all the believers in your
church. Perhaps someone did something that hurt you. When you remember that
person you feel like going to his house and attacking him with a chisel. Friend, certain
things are better forgotten. Remembering them is like reopening wounds and that's
painful. Living the Christian life is not easy at all. It requires a lot of forgiving. Gospel
tracts don't influence unbelievers as much as some people think. It's a pure life that
does.
Don’t compare yourself with others (Gal.6:4-5)
Comparing yourself with others can be depressing. Maybe in your college there is a
very good looking guy and all the girls like him and you don’t get that kind of attention. It
doesn’t matter how you look externally really! It’s more important that you’re a beautiful
person from the inside. There are girls who value integrity more than looks. They like
boys who don’t flirt, who give everything for what they believe in and boys with
manners. These qualities act like a magnet, pulling people towards you.

31. Relax (John 14:27)
Because of the peace that Jesus gives, you can stay relaxed even in the midst of illness
and pain. For unbelievers life is different. For them life is like a big roller coaster ride.
They feel high at one moment and low at another. In stressful or difficult situations they
get agitated or panic. That should not be the case with us. No singing the blues please.
Don't judge others (Mt.7:1-5)
Are the elders who judge others without sin? Of course not! If you examine their moral
lives they are a long way from being saints. But they track 'sinners' down like
bloodhounds. And add to their woes by their unmerciful criticisms. They should check
their lives first before making digs at others. Apostle Paul was one of the few who was
honest about his slipping (Rom.7:19). These elders better be careful - the Lord is
watching.
Remember Him (Hosea 8:14)
What would be your reaction, if the children whom you loved dearly, fed for many years,
been there for always and brought up moved away with their families and forgot about
you and didn’t bother to write to you or even call you? Wouldn’t you be angry with
them? You would feel why did I ever take such great care of them. That was how God
felt with Israel. The emotions that would go in your heart went in His too.
Some selfish children find their parents a burden, put them in homes for the aged and
then rationalize by saying that they will be comfortable there, well nursed after. Is that
what old parents want? "To hell with your financial support," they’ll say. What they want
is your love – you taking the time to talk to them. That is what God wants from us too.
Be slow to speak (Jas.1:19)
The grave mistake some believers make is that they speak too soon. Let's not behave
like these people who don't have sensible heads over their shoulders. Like Jesus we
should be very understanding. People we want to criticize have their reasons for acting
the way they have. If we want to follow Jesus we better not open our mouths too wide.
Don’t lie (Jer.23:25; 2 Sam.1:9-15)
"Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways (dreams being one of them) to our
ancestors through the prophets. But now in these final days, He has spoken to us
through His Son," say the scriptures (Heb.1:1-2). Some people think that God still
speaks through dreams. They share their dreams in church along with fantastic
interpretations. Sleeping after a heavy meal gives a person nice dreams! To become
popular in church people cook dreams. Don’t lie to your brothers and sisters.

32. Chapter 6
Before he killed Goliath, David was a nobody in Israel. King Saul thought that he was
too small a man to take on the huge Philistine. His brothers thought that he had lost his
mental balance to leave the cattle behind and come on the battle field. His life changed
after he slew the giant. His value (in the eyes of people) shot up. The seeds of his
spectacular triumph were sown in the fields back home when he was alone with God.
When you are alone with God, you learn to be fearless so that when everything seems
lost you can be victorious. Never think that you are insignificant. God can use you
mightily.
Remain silent when falsely accused (Mt.26:63)
It is not easy to be silent when grave accusations (false ones) are hurled at us. It’s a
challenge, really, to be still when people are hissing about things we don’t want to hear.
Those who let off steam remain tiny lizards while those who follow Jesus by remaining
quiet become spiritual dinosaurs. Just like you feel bad, to this day, about what you
unjustly said about someone who kept quiet, in the same way, if you keep quiet, it will
blow your enemy’s mind. It is amazing what a change in mindset (taking hurt and not
giving hurt back in return) can achieve.
Run on His errands (Mt.28:19,20)
Our friends are there for us when it’s convenient for them. But our God is not like them.
He is always there for us. Whenever there is a problem – when you are wading through
troubled waters, or when you hit some rough patches – He is there right beside you.
You can go to Him anytime. He doesn’t take money from us for services rendered.
Since He is always there for you make sure that you are there for Him too when He
needs you. Meaning for running on His errands.
Spend time with the aged (1Sam.3)
Some old people are spending the last days of their lives in misery in homes for the
aged. You can spare few minutes of your time every week to go and talk to them. You
will see what a big difference few minutes of your time can make. Watch their faces light
up when they see you walking through the door. If they know that there is just one
person who cares for them, they feel happy. Perhaps this is something you never
thought about earlier. Better late than never mate.
Give glory to God (Dan.4:28-37)
Success can make a person’s head swell. When you look at what you have
accomplished you must say, “I am what I am today by the grace of God.” Without the
help of God you would have been a nobody and would have had nothing. Proud people
better be careful. God can tilt your apple cart.
Help people (1Ki.19:4-8)
People have put an end to their lives because they saw no meaning to it. Had they
known Jesus, they may have been around today. Make sure that you treat everyone
you know personally like he’s/she’s a person. If someone appears despondent give him

33. hope. Be sensitive to spot emotionally needy people and help them out. If you are
already doing that, here’s a pat for your back. This world needs more friends like you
and not people who known the Bible by
heart but are selfish.
Serve others (Rom.12:7)
Instead of sitting at home alone with the books you have for company, open your gate
wide so people can come in. The company of people is a thing that makes life very
interesting. Like you try to help a young couple and you get squeezed in the middle.
Their childish war of words is amusing. But in the end there is no rift between the two
(only kisses) because of your friendly intervention.
Hug your enemy (Rom.12:20,21)
The world and the church (unfortunately) have nasty people who hatch conspiracies.
What you say gets twisted. They can cut you in half with all the information that they
gather about you. God hates such creeps (Prov.6:19). But you don’t have the right to
hate your enemy so give him a warm hug. That will leave him completely stumped.
Respect elders (Col.3:20,21; 1Tim.6:1)
Some youngsters are wondering whether the sole preoccupation of elders is to irritate
their sheep because Sunday after Sunday they give lectures. Young dudes, we are all
sinners, no one better than the other. But, God speaks through His servants to us, so
listen. And you servants of God, continue to do your duty. Some young people don’t
realize that they are doing something wrong until you point it out to them.
Behave properly in church (Acts 20:9; Mt.13:24-30; 36-43)
There are believers who are in the church only to weaken it, almost as though they’ve
been planted there by the enemy. They make it clear that they are not happy to be there
(they are perhaps pulled in by their parents every Sunday like a shepherd pulls a
stubborn goat to take her home) and seem determined to make sure that others are not
happy either. They care a hoot about God and the things of God. See the way they
fidget with their mobiles and distract others. Can’t keep their mobiles off for 2 hrs! So
desperate they are to chat with their unbelieving friends about the weather! Busy
sending text messages in church! See the way they look left and right with bored
expressions while the sermon is being delivered. It’s very encouraging for the preacher
who has worked hard in preparing his sermon to see such faces! Such believers should
better stay at home and watch TV.
Pattern your life after St.Paul’s (Phil.3:17)
Someone close to you stabbed you on the back. It was the biggest let down in your life.
When you think about it, a wave of bitter feelings engulf you. Don’t let the past destroy
your happiness. Be like kittens. They learn by imitating the behavior of their mother.
Imitate Paul. He didn’t hang on to the past. There is no use in brooding over bitter
experiences for days. Forgive and forget. Difficult experiences form us.

34. Be faithful to God (1Tim. 4:12)
There are many kinds of servants of God – the flamboyant ones always seeking
publicity, those that are in it for money, the power hungry nerds and then there are the
genuine ones. Many of these genuine ones live in obscurity, in villages. They are doing
something unusual for God but because there is no TV crew there no one knows about
it. For them the best thing to hear is when Hindu converts go up to them and tell them
that they are amazing because they have sacrificed everything to go and live in the
middle of nowhere for their sake. That makes all the work worth it. Their funerals may
not be attended by thousands but up there, for being sacrificial, they will be applauded
by tens of thousands.
Honor your wife (1Pet.3:7)
Your wife is one of those persons who can never sit still, or take it easy or keep quiet.
Maybe she is the questioning type who is able to spot the flaws in everything you do.
That kind of behavior makes it hard to make a marriage last. But be a loving and patient
husband. Don’t allow her irritating behavior to break your marriage.
Accept trials gracefully (2Pet.1:6-8)
You are soured because of the behavior of certain people. You hope that it is a bad
dream and that when you wake up everything will be okay. If people had behaved
properly this world would have been a better place to live in. But we would not have
grown spiritually. To grow up from the height of a mushroom to a banyan tree, we need
those difficult people. Growth does not take place overnight. We need a steady dose of
unkind treatment day after day, year after year.
Be there for people (1Thes.5:14 & Obad.8--11)
Don’t be surprised if, when you really need them, your friends aren’t there for you. But
you shouldn’t be like them. Always be available for people who need you. When he is at
home, a believer should be able to think about you and your wife and say, “I’m glad they
are there for folks like me.” And when the problem is over, he should be able to come
up to you and say, “Thank you so much brother. I was able to do it with your help.” Don’t
consider him a nuisance if after few more days because he has another problem, he is
back knocking on your door.
Use your time wisely (Eph. 5:16)
Time is precious and it’s ticking away while you use your computer to play solitaire.
Some people have limited time for other people but unlimited time for things that are of
interest to them. We Christians should be spending more time doing more important
things. Put aside time to think about others and to listen to what they have to say. At
any time, there’ll be somebody struggling with something and it’s your job to talk to that
person and help him to feel good.
Take care of your eyes (Mt.5:27-29)
Some people suffer from what is known as the ‘roving eye syndrome.’ Even old elders
have lust in their eyes. They tell sisters to dress properly. We wonder what these men
do when they are out on the streets full of unbelieving ladies. God knows and they

35. know. It is important to keep a check on the eyes. You have permission from God to
admire only your wife’s bum and tum.
Don’t get affected by the behavior of bad people (Mt.27:27-31)
May be you are going through hell right now. There are mean people around you who
are aiming where it hurts most. Your poor back can’t take it anymore. Friend, this world
is not a nice place to be in. Don’t get affected by their comments. One day they will get
a taste of what is knows as God’s rod.
Care for your wife (Col.3:19)
May be you are a morning person who likes to sleep soon after dinner so you can wake
up to have your quiet time in the morning while your wife is a night owl. For her sake
you can change the habit of a lifetime once in a while. Stay up late, hang around in the
kitchen to talk to her as she soaks peas for the following day’s breakfast. Once she has
finished with the chores, maybe you can watch a movie together (not Ben Hur or The
Ten Commandments but a decent romantic one. Check the paper for ratings). Show her
that you care for her.
Correct sinners nicely (Jn.8:1-11)
Thank God the Bible is a warts and all book. Our elders seem to have forgotten that.
They act like they are as holy as Daniel and Joseph. They aren’t anywhere near those
fellows! Only God knows what they think of during their free time and how many sins
lurk beneath the surface. When a believer sins, they run after him with the ferocity of a
pack of hunting dogs. They should learn to correct sinners in a more humane manner.
Be good to repentant sinners (Lk.15:11-32)
When the prodigal son returned, his father had a steak party organised for him. What a
way to be welcomed back! Today, if a believer commits a gross sin and repents, he
won’t get a free lunch. He can expect to see believers waiting to lynch. Or if they
prepare a meal, just after he has finished eating it as the prodigal thinks that it was
relishing, he’ll get a sound bashing.
Use hardships for growing (1Pet.1:7)
You can’t grow as a person if there are no hardships. They take you many steps
forward in your Christian life. Down here there will be moments of great disappointment,
you will come across irritating fellows and there will be incidents that upset you. But
these things/people will change you as a person.
Value people more than money (1Tim. 6:9,10)
Do you believe in valuing money more than life? That’s what appears to be the case
with nurses and doctors who line up to go to the UK/US. Just think of all the souls they
lose when they all make this unfortunate decision. It is very cruel to shirk responsibility
and leave behind souls that need you. Only God can open people’s eyes.

36. Don’t fear your flock (1Tim.4:6-15)
Some servants of God preach like they are afraid that the church members will go to
them after the service and tell, “We won’t be needing your services anymore.” People
may listen to find fault with your message, a lot of people may take objection to it and
you may have to stand in front of an arm folded frowning jury but don’t stop preaching
fiery messages. You are answerable to God. You are His servant and He will take care
of you if you stop getting crumbs from the tables of those misers.
Don’t worry (Mt.6:25-34)
There are plenty of things to worry about for those inclined that way. When a person
sees a huge rock he bites his nails and because he is completely shaken. Another
person blows the rock to bits with dynamite. The difference between the two is that they
had different minds. The solutions to many of life’s problems is a positive attitude. The
dark clouds of gloom that suffocate you will lift but when they are there you can play sad
music to become more sad or you can go to the music player and change the CD
knowing that things will get better.
Look after servants of God well (Lev.2:10; 3Jn.5-8; Hag.12-11)
Servants of God don’t get paid well, and so focus on ways to make money on the side.
Like preparing false travel and food bills. How else can they be expected to buy milk tins
for their toddlers with the measly Rs.2000/- that they get paid per month by their
missions organization? So when a servant of God who has come to your house says a
long prayer of blessing or praises your kid too much you sense opportunism there.
Believers, so servants of God don’t expect something every time you shake their hands
with a ‘praise the Lord’ (which is embarrassing both for you and them) pay them well.
And servants of God, remember that the curse of grinding poverty has stuck to millions
in our country like a leech. You are much better off than them so shout a halleluiah to
the Lord right now. Always be content with what God has given to you. Don’t have
unnecessary cravings. A cycle is better for your body (for exercise) than a motor cycle.

37. Chapter 7
May be things have become very tight in your home all at once because you have lost
your job. You are really going through a rough time because of this. Don't worry,
brother. Jyoti Basu (ex CM of West Bengal) once said, "If you can't find jobs, do
business." Inspiring words those. You too can become an entrepreneur. See if you can
find a large hearted believer who can lend you some money. Buy pairs of jeans or
whatever can get you more money with less investment. Then go stand on the road at a
weekly market to peddle your wares. There is no shame in doing honest work. Different
areas have different market days. Do some research so you have work for 5 days in a
week. You don't have to be a great salesman who can sell refrigerators to Eskimos. No
one can convince anyone to buy! We choose to buy what we want to buy and not what
a glib talker/celebrity tells us to. If your product looks good, people will buy it even if you
don't sing its praises (many salesmen sing false ones). Pray to God. He can make
people to stop near your piece of ground. When you prosper a bit, be large hearted too.
Don't get upset (1Sam.25:4-13)
Everyday there are so many things that can upset us. You buy a birthday card for a
friend. Your 2-yr-old son thinks it is his birthday card and destroys it. Your wife is on a
buying binge even though your budget is tight. You take a day off just to go to distribute
Gideon Bibles in a school and a believer who promised that he would join you gets a
stomachache suddenly. You know that his excuse is an out and out lie and you get
upset. Your 68-yr-old forgetful father in law is becoming a headache so you throw your
hands up and tell your wife angrily, "I am losing patience with that old man. Why doesn't
he go and live with your brother?" Brother Impatient, we have to prove that we are
Christians over and over again. So next time you have a bad day in the office, instead of
taking it out on you wife after reaching home, thank her for her day long hard work. Tell
you what? Give her a nice long passionate French kiss (after brushing your teeth). By
the time you finish, you will forget your work tensions and she will forget hers.
Don't fume when insulted (Esth.3:5,6)
Somebody offended you in the office and fuming you pointed your finger at his nose and
said, "You don't know who you're playing with. Don't mess with me. I don't like to fight
but I usually win when I fight." Don't let your ego get in the way, brother. Don't say, "I will
not tolerate harassment from anybody nor take shit from anyone." There are believers
who screamed when hurt. Their larynxes got damaged and they achieved nothing for
God. Your negative reaction reflect poorly on you rather than your enemy, even if it
happens that you're right because as a Christian you are expected to behave differently.
If you want people to be drawn into your orbit, calm down when someone tries to add
insult to injury. You will hear God whispering (not literally), "Thank you for responding in
the manner you did, my son. This is the perfect example of how I want my children to
behave down there."
Be in touch with the world (Acts 17:16-34)
When you come across servants of God who say they don't know who the chief minister
of their state is, they've been too busy praying. And you've got a serious problem there.

38. These people should come out of their prayer rooms for some air. Probably go on the
terraces of their prayer towers and read newspapers and secular magazines to be in
touch with the world. After 40 days were over, the disciples left the cozy prayer room
and went out to the ends of the world. If you feel that God has called you to reach the
Hindus/Sikhs in Canada and Australia please go but if your motive is to earn dollars you
have become a modern day Demas.
Don't be demanding (1Sam.2:12-17; 1Chro.11:17-19)
God alone knows how much some pastors are raking in on all the little fish in their
ponds. Men of God, it is not good, morally, to milk dry the very people who support you.
For a hardworking father of three every penny counts. Their income is just not to
support you as they have numerous expenses so your regular sermons on 'giving' are
stressful for them. The government already eats too much of their money. If you
continue to be unreasonably demanding, the next time they get your email it will get
deleted or they will just go elsewhere.
Return borrowed things on time (Mt.21:1-3)
A believer borrows money from you and tells you that he will return it the following
month. The month comes to an end and still there is no sign of that fellow and you begin
to get a little worried wondering which 'month' he was referring to as you have bills to
pay. If someone owes you money, you are very fast in collecting it, but for some reason
think it is okay for you to delay giving someone else's money back. All liars will go to
hell. This is some information straight from the horse's mouth (Rev.21:8)
Counsel properly (1Ki.12:9-11)
A baby falls sick and the pastor tells its mother not to take it to a doctor as prayers will
heal it. The baby dies and the pastor gathers his flock in the believer's house and
preaches, "Let's not be like unbelievers who don't have hope. Let's rejoice as the baby
has gone to be with the Lord and one day our dear sister is going to see it.
HALLELUIAH!" How ludicrous! Some people can be so darn wordy! Is this how people
are taught to counsel in Bible colleges? The woman is in tears over her baby because
of your foolish advice and you are dancing with joy. This is no way to help people in
distress. Reminds us of Job. Job was a nice person and for him to say some of the
things he said was not like him. But his friends continued to rub salt in his wounds till the
poor fellow couldn't take it anymore and had to scream. There are a few things more
despicable than insensitive people. When people need your help don't quote numerous
Bible verses or give the "I understand your problem blah blah blah" crap. Your pat
answers will be of zero assistance to them. Just be silent. Time is a great healer.
Don't gossip (Lev.19:16)
Some churches are plagued by an epidemic of gossip. Someone comes to your house
pretending to be concerned about your family's welfare but actually wants to get
information that can be shared with others. So once you've quenched her
inquisitiveness she goes to another house and starts, "Oh, you know what happened
…" And within days the news is out on the entire internet because of prayer emails.

39. Such loose talk by mean people causes a lot of damage to the church. Unbelievers can
act in such a fashion, but believers should be careful.
Behave like a man (Judg.4:8,9; Jn.10:1-13)
Some servants of God have lost their masculinity. Like fisherwomen they are waiting on
the shore to get fish that others have caught. They should prove that they are men and
not sissies by going for deep sea fishing. No more shooting fish in a barrel, men of God!
Try to get unconverted Hindus to guide them in the right direction. Otherwise wear
bangles for being effeminate.
Respect God's servants (2Ki.4:8-10)
We get to hear, "The elder son was very bright so he was sent to an engineering
college. The younger one wasn't good for anything so he was sent off to a Bible
College." Can people who speak like this stop? Just because a boy is not good in Maths
or Physics doesn't mean that he is an idiot. God purposely saw to it that the boy was not
good in these subjects so He could use him full time for His glory. God has given him
other gifts - the ability to preach fearlessly, the ability to influence people and win them
over etc. He is much smarter than his elder brother who wears soda glasses and
shakes like a leaf when the time comes for sharing the gospel with others.
Don't keep what doesn't belong to you (1Ki.21)
God gets upset when a person keeps an item that doesn't belong to him. Only a thief
does that. Check your house to see if there is any thing that you had borrowed from
someone a long time ago and go give it back to that person. You owe him a sincere
apology. If mistakenly, the workflow executive of your company marks you present
when you have been absent and you discover that after checking your salary slip don't
go home to tell your wife, "See how God has blessed us, honey." That is not God's way
of saying, "My son, I love you very much." If you decide that you are going to keep the
money and your conscience doesn't tell you that you are doing something wrong then
something is wrong. You have been listening too much to prosperity preachers. Go and
give the money that doesn't belong to you back. It will leave a very good impression on
the Hindu executive.
Don't rob people (2Pet.2:3; Joel.2:12-14)
There are prayer phone lines. Not only do people have to pay for the long distance
phone calls out of their own pockets, they have to support the ministers too. The truth is
that these prayer warriors have little concern for the callers. If they had, they wouldn't
have ripped off poor believers as well. Nice business strategy guys! The devil has
something to say to you, "Congratulations for fooling the new born babes!" We have
something to ask you too, "Do you need money that bad?" Then join a call centre! You
will get paid well. There are vernacular ones too. At least you won't be guilty of (for lack
of a better word) screwing people in the name of religion. This is our last ditch effort to
make you change your ways and this is the plainest English we can use.